Menzies Aviation expands UK fuel network with launch of operations at Aberdeen Airport

Menzies Aviation has commenced fuel operations at Aberdeen International Airport, expanding its UK aviation fuel network to 11 airports and taking responsibility for both the airport's fuel storage infrastructure and into-plane fuelling services.

image: Menzies Aviation

The company assumed responsibility for the operation in July following a 75-day mobilisation programme, during which it recruited and trained a new operational team, implemented fuel management systems and completed the transition of fuel services. Under the agreement, Menzies will manage the airport's fuel farm alongside aircraft refuelling services for commercial airlines operating at Aberdeen.

Marco di Mario, Executive Vice President Fuels at Menzies Aviation, said the mobilisation represented one of the more complex activities undertaken by the business.

"Bringing a fuel operation of this scale into service in just 75 days is a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to the expertise, dedication and collaboration of everyone involved," he said. "Mobilisations are among the most complex activities in our industry, requiring the right people, processes and safety culture to be in place from day one."

He added that Aberdeen represented "one of the UK's most important energy hubs" and said the company looked forward to supporting airline customers with safe and efficient fuel operations.

Aberdeen International Airport said the appointment of Menzies would support the continued delivery of safe and reliable fuelling services at the airport, which serves both scheduled passenger airlines and the North Sea energy sector. The airport handles around 2.3m passengers annually and is a key hub for domestic, European and offshore helicopter operations.

The move strengthens Menzies Aviation's position in the UK aviation fuel market. The company provides into-plane fuelling, fuel farm management and fuel infrastructure services at airports around the world as part of its wider ground handling, cargo and passenger service operations. Globally, Menzies operates at more than 350 airports in over 65 countries.

The expansion comes as airports and ground handling companies continue to invest in fuel infrastructure and operational resilience while preparing for the longer-term transition towards lower-carbon aviation fuels. Alongside conventional aviation fuel services, Menzies has been increasing its involvement in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) initiatives through partnerships aimed at improving the availability and distribution of alternative fuels across its airport network.